Klipprunden - 1994 11 30

Magazine Overview

Title: KLIPPRUNDEN
Issue Date: November 30, 1994
Publisher: UFO-NORGE
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of KLIPPRUNDEN, a publication by UFO-NORGE, covers a range of topics related to UFOs and unexplained phenomena, reflecting the growing interest in the subject, partly fueled by the popular TV series 'X-Files'.

Contents

Editorial and Correspondence

The editorial begins with a brief mention of the EU election results and a general sense of satisfaction with Europe's isolation. It notes a lack of UFO-related clippings but highlights a few that have arrived. The editor expresses amusement that new phenomena are still being discovered, referencing an article in 'Vi Menn' magazine. Correspondence includes clippings from 'Adresseavisen' and 'Ringerikets Blad' concerning a 'guru' on Kattem, which the editor suggests should be ignored. Another mention of 'Vi Menn' features an interview with Bjarne Lillevold about Hessdalen, with a continuation on page 41. The editor humorously notes receiving a new name.

Book Review and X-Files

A book review by Jannicke is mentioned, followed by articles inspired by the American series 'X-Files'. 'Bergens Tidende' is noted for presenting general events and interpretations from both 'believing ufologists' and skeptics like James Randi. The editor finds UFO-NORGE's stance on this somewhat narrow. 'Dagbladet' is praised for an article that provides 'visible proof' of a Norwegian counterpart to the 'X-Files' phenomenon, highlighting a mysterious shack and an exciting theme.

Media Inquiries and Hessdalen

TV-2 has contacted the publication, interested in featuring them in a Norwegian version of 'X-Files,' possibly due to the shack's eccentric appearance. The editor promises to follow up on this. 'Focus,' an English discovery magazine, is mentioned for its focus on 'Earth Lights' and hints from 'PROJECT HESSDALEN.' A PC fax to Erling indicates that TV coverage of Hessdalen is being broadcast worldwide. An Italian bio-astronomer saw Erling Strand on Italian TV discussing UFOs in Europe, sending a fax with questions for Strand.

Reader Contributions and Logo

'Ark 40' contains clippings sent by Knut Aasheim, who is thanked for his contributions, with many of his previous submissions used in the last 'Klipprunde.' Readers are encouraged to send in clippings from their local newspapers. Specifically addressing Knut, the editor discusses the 'sight lines' in the UFO-NORGE logo, explaining that the new logo represents a 'real thing' – a photo from Hessdalen – making the sight lines more meaningful than a mere drawing. A clarifying sentence will be added to the magazine's cover to explain the logo's significance.

Statfjord A. and Subscriptions

On November 22nd and 23rd, the author gave two lectures on Statfjord A. at the request of Richard Norfolk from Statoil, with four more lectures scheduled for January. The author describes the experience as exciting and rewarding, including a tour of the offshore platform and good food. Contrary to expectations, the platforms are subjected to significant stress from the sea. The author notes an increase in subscribers, exceeding the year's forecast of 800 by ten. Sira Kvina is mentioned for future lectures, with hopes for potential benefits. The publication plans to increase to four issues per year in A-4 format with a full-color cover, aiming for 1000 subscribers. Readers are urged to help by signing up new subscribers, especially as a Christmas gift, with a special offer of 80 kroner for three magazines. Those who sign up five new subscribers will receive their own subscription for free.

Funding and Equipment

The author appeals for information on grants and scholarships that could benefit UFO-NORGE, believing their research warrants greater financial support. The immediate goal is to cover a position at the 'Rapportsentralen' (Report Center). Efforts are underway to acquire two PCs from Statoil for training field researchers and data input. There is a good chance of receiving funding from 'Kaia-midler' through the labor office.

Puzzles and 3-D Images

Page 3 features 'jokes and hidden 3-D drawings' for readers to solve, with the solution to be provided in the next issue. Instructions are given on how to view the 3-D images, requiring patience and a relaxed environment. The page also includes a photo with the caption "Is this the way to Hell?"

Notable Quotes and Images

Page 4 includes a quote from Gry Jannicke Jarlum, described as a 'UFO-messenger,' to 'VG' on February 2nd: "I am a strong person who can handle a lot. That's why I have been chosen to be a messenger for everyone else on Earth." An image of a Swedish Olympic pin is also shown.

'Vi Menn' Article: Sky-Maneter

A significant article from 'Vi Menn' (issue 47-94, dated 22/11) details the phenomenon of 'sky-maneter' (sky-jellyfish). Enormous, red 'maneter' with light blue tentacles were photographed for the first time in color over thunderstorms in the USA by a research plane. The phenomenon, previously unknown, was observed between June 12 and July 28. NASA funded the research, conducted by the University of Alaska. The light flashes, called 'sprites,' reach up to 80 kilometers into the atmosphere, into the ionosphere, almost as high as the aurora borealis. These brief flashes, lasting only thousandths of a second, are accompanied by radio noise. The phenomenon is also observed as blue 'currents.' Professor Eugene Wescott describes the blue currents as appearing in narrow bands, like explosions or rays in a cloud chamber. Pilots have reported blue and greenish light columns for years, but Sentman and Wescott were the first to record them on video. The flashes occur at the top of thunderstorms and travel up to 30 kilometers, at speeds between 30 and 100 kilometers per second (300 times the speed of sound). Color differences are attributed to atmospheric conditions. The phenomenon has also been registered by astronauts and can be observed from the ground with sufficient attention.

UFO-Circus on TV2

An article discusses the phenomenon of UFOs, quoting Arthur Clarke's observation that the subject is burdened with 'bluff, hysteria, religious mania, incompetence, and most other unsympathetic human characteristics.' TV2 presented a program on November 3rd that exemplified this. The article notes that in the USA, three to four million Americans allegedly claim to have been abducted by UFOs. The role of 'hobby ufologists' is criticized for presenting themselves as objective investigators while perpetuating myths. John A. Keel, an author and journalist who has followed the UFO syndrome for years, believes ufology is a 'dead sausage without accessories' and that the psychological aspect of the phenomenon has been neglected. Keel states that ufology is not and will never be a science, but rather a 'pedantic theology' with rituals and dogmas. He argues that most UFO sightings have natural explanations, and that the remaining few are simply unidentified, not necessarily extraterrestrial. The article concludes that as long as ufologists have something to lose, the 'UFO phenomenon' will remain unexplained.

Strange Light in Ringerikets Blad

A short piece from 'Ringerikets Blad' dated 21/11-94 reports on a strange blue light observed by 14-year-old Bjørn Harald Espegren and a friend in Vestre Ådal. The light was described as a strong, uniform, light blue glow that illuminated the entire sky for a few seconds. Espegren notes that it was not lightning, as thunderstorms are rare at that time of year, and the light was steady. His parents reported that their electrical lights had flickered. The question is posed to readers for an explanation.

Hessdalen: Visit from Alien Planets?

This section features a detailed report from 'Allers' (issue 45/94) about the Hessdalen phenomenon. Bjarne Lillevold, a farmer in the 12 km long valley, describes observing unexplained luminous objects since the early 1980s, including orange and blue-green spheres, cigar-shaped objects, luminous triangles, and flaming fires. He recounts personal experiences, such as seeing a cigar-shaped object moving slowly at low altitude, and a luminous red ball that lit up the forest. He also describes seeing a blue light ball that was almost transparent. Lillevold recounts a frightening experience in 1984 involving three shining lights that moved and changed positions as if controlled. He participated in a reconstruction of events for a French TV documentary about the Hessdalen phenomenon. The article notes that theories abound but no definitive explanation exists. It also mentions historical accounts of strange lights in the area dating back to 1811. The 'Hessdalen phenomenon' is described as occurring in all weather conditions, at all times of day and year, appearing as flaming fires, luminous spheres, cigars, eggs, and triangles, seen over mountains, in valleys, and over houses. The objects can hover for minutes or disappear instantly, dim their lights when aircraft pass, and are registered on radar and photographed. The article includes an excerpt from Leif Havik's book "UFO-fenomenet - Kan det umulige være mulig?" which lists observations from 1881-87.

'Dagbladet' Article: Norway's Answer to 'X-Files'

This article from 'Dagbladet' (November 19, 1994) discusses the Norwegian response to the 'X-Files' phenomenon. It highlights that the Norwegian 'X-Files' archive is located in Flekkefjord, where UFO-Norge has collected 3000 reports of UFO observations and paranormal phenomena, with 30-40 cases per year remaining unsolved. The article interviews Torfrid Urdal, a waitress and UFO-Norge member, who has never personally experienced anything paranormal but is deeply interested in the phenomenon. UFO-Norge has been investigating UFO phenomena since 1973. Ole Jonny Brænne, a board member, states that despite Norway having a high number of UFO observations, the military and police deny having their own UFO archives. The report center receives calls from people who have seen unexplained phenomena, and UFO-Norge sends them a detailed report form. Investigators contact relevant institutions to find explanations. Torfrid notes that while many observations have natural explanations, about 30-40 cases per year remain unexplained. The article also mentions that after 14 episodes of the American 'X-Files,' many people have contacted UFO-Norge asking if the FBI truly has an archive of unsolved UFO cases.

'Dagbladet' Article: 'Norsk UFO-Fil'

This article from 'Dagbladet' (November 27, 1994) focuses on the Norwegian 'X-Files' archive in Flekkefjord, run by UFO-Norge. It states that the archive contains 3000 reports of UFO observations and paranormal phenomena, with 30-40 unsolved cases annually. The article interviews Torfrid Urdal and Odd-Gunnar Røed, who coordinate the investigations. UFO-Norge has been active since 1973. Ole Jonny Brænne, a board member, claims that the Norwegian military and police deny having UFO archives. The report center receives calls and sends out questionnaires to witnesses. Investigations involve contacting local authorities, radar stations, astronomical societies, and meteorological institutes. Torfrid mentions that most sightings have natural explanations, but 30-40 cases remain unexplained each year. The article also includes a definition of UFO and statistics on public awareness and sightings in Norway.

'Bergens Tidende' Article: Close Contact with the New 'Gods'

This article from 'Bergens Tidende' (November 19, 1994) discusses the 'new UFO cult' fueled by the 'X-Files' series, describing it as a mix of ufology, astrology, and quackery. It quotes James Randi, a magician and author, who criticizes those who profit from people's ignorance. Randi argues that 98% of UFO observations have natural explanations, such as Venus being mistaken for a UFO or atmospheric effects. He believes that the remaining two percent are simply unidentified, not necessarily extraterrestrial. Randi emphasizes the need for science to counter pseudoscience and for researchers to educate the public. The article also touches upon theories about extraterrestrial visitors from planets like Mars and the concept of 'humanoids.' It mentions Gry Jannicke Jarlum, a Norwegian 'star witness,' who claims to be born on Venus and to have experienced abduction and medical examinations for breeding purposes.

'Dagbladet' Article: The Truth is Out There

This article from 'Dagbladet' (November 27, 1994) reiterates that the Norwegian 'X-Files' archive is in Flekkefjord, managed by UFO-Norge, containing 3000 reports of UFO observations and paranormal phenomena, with 30-40 unsolved cases annually. It highlights the work of Torfrid Urdal and Odd-Gunnar Røed. The article mentions that despite Norway having a high number of UFO observations, the military and police deny having their own archives. Investigations involve detailed questionnaires and collaboration with various institutions. Torfrid states that most sightings have natural explanations, but 30-40 cases remain unexplained each year. The article includes a definition of UFO and statistics on public awareness and sightings in Norway.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include UFO sightings, the Hessdalen phenomenon, the influence of the 'X-Files' TV series, and the work of UFO-Norge in documenting and investigating these phenomena in Norway. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these events and discussions, while also critically examining the claims made by ufologists, particularly through the inclusion of skeptical viewpoints from figures like James Randi and John A. Keel. There is a clear encouragement for reader participation through submitting clippings and subscribing to the publication. The magazine also highlights its own efforts to gain funding and resources for its research.

This issue of Dagbladet, dated 'FEBER' (February) 1994, with issue number 37 and volume 45, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena and their connection to the popular TV series 'X-Files.' The cover features a headline 'ES-FEBER' and an image reminiscent of the show's protagonist, Dana Scully, surrounded by files.

X-Files and Real-Life Investigations

The main article delves into the premise of the American TV series 'X-Files,' where FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully investigate UFOs and paranormal phenomena. It clarifies that while the show's creator, Chris Carter, consulted the FBI for details on agent procedures, the 'X-Files' concept itself is fictional. The FBI spokesperson, Paul Bresson, denies the existence of a dedicated 'X-Files' archive within the bureau, stating that unsolved cases are simply labeled as such.

UFO-Norge and Norwegian UFO Research

The issue highlights the work of UFO-Norge, a Norwegian organization established in 1973 with approximately 800 members. The organization aims to investigate UFO sightings using scientific principles and remains open to various hypotheses. Two key figures from UFO-Norge, Ole Jonny Brænne and Stein Carlsen, are interviewed. Brænne, a skeptic like Dana Scully, focuses on rational explanations, while Carlsen, who has developed a new manual for investigating unidentified flying objects, appreciates Scully's objective approach. Both follow the 'X-Files' series closely.

'Earth Lights' and Tectonic Strain Theory

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the phenomenon of 'earth lights' – unexplained luminous occurrences often correlated with geological faults. Researchers like Paul McCartney and Paul Devereux have studied these lights, particularly in areas like Warminster, UK. The Tectonic Strain Theory, developed by Canadians Gyslaine Lafrenière and Michael Persinger, proposes that immense electrical charges generated by the Earth's crust pushing rocks together can ionize the air and create these lights. The article notes that these lights can appear in various shapes (spheres, bars, triangles) and colors, exhibit unusual behavior, and sometimes produce strong radar pulses.

The Hessdalen Lights

The Hessdalen valley in Norway has been a focal point for 'earth light' observations since the early 1980s. A project group, including experts from Norwegian research institutions, has been studying these phenomena. Initial theories ranged from planetary appearances to train reflections, but these have been largely dismissed. Modern research, led by Erling Strand, involves sophisticated instruments like seismographs, radar, and magnetometers. The lights have been detected by radar and have shown reactions to lasers. Despite extensive study, the exact nature of the Hessdalen lights remains unknown, with theories touching upon free energy in the atmosphere and 'null-point energy.'

Other UFO and Space News

Briefly, the issue touches upon other related topics:

• Moon Atmosphere: A photograph by Michael Mendillo and Brian Flynn shows the faint global light of the Moon's atmosphere, composed of different intensities of light from sodium atoms.
• Dust Ring Near Earth: Astronomers have indirectly detected a ring of asteroid dust orbiting the Sun, which Earth passes through, influencing its atmosphere.
• Mars as Next Goal: NASA chief Daniel Goldin states that sending a man to Mars is the long-term goal for the US space agency.
• UFO Sighting in Gjøvik: A report from Gjøvik, Norway, describes a strange object seen in the sky with a large ring and blinking lights, potentially a UFO.
• UFO Meeting in China: Scientists at Beijing's first UFO conference suggest the need for global sky monitoring, with some believing extraterrestrial craft may have already visited China.
• Age of the Universe: Recent calculations suggest the universe may be older than previously thought, potentially over 20 billion years old.

Folklore and Scientific Skepticism

The article contrasts historical folklore (fairies, dragons, treasure lights) with modern interpretations of unexplained lights as flying saucers. It notes that scientific skepticism can hinder research into these phenomena, but acknowledges that the lights require explanation. The issue concludes by emphasizing the ongoing nature of research and the importance of witness accounts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a stance of exploring unexplained phenomena with a blend of scientific inquiry and an acknowledgment of the public's fascination, particularly as fueled by popular culture like 'X-Files.' It presents research from organizations like UFO-Norge and scientific theories such as Tectonic Strain Theory, while also referencing folklore and witness testimonies. The editorial approach appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging further study into UFOs and related mysteries, without definitively endorsing any single explanation.